Diamond Bou Aboud: Cedar’s film examines the remnants of war and its impact on multiple generations
The 45th Cairo International Film Festival showcased the Egyptian-Lebanese film “Arza.” The film competes in the Horizons Arab Cinema Competition. It has participated in several international film festivals and is nominated to represent Lebanon at the Oscars.
“Arza” follows the life of Arja, who faces various challenges while striving to support her son, Kenan, and her sister, Laila. The film features Diamond Abu Abboud, Betty Tuttle, and Bilal Al-Hamwi. It highlights the strength of Lebanese women coping with economic issues, revolution, and war. Meera Shayer directed the film. Faisal Shayer and Lue Khrayish wrote the script, and Hani Adel composed the soundtrack.
Diamond Bou Aboud expressed her joy about the film’s screening in Cairo. She stated, “I am very happy that the film Cedar is finally showing in Cairo after participating in several international festivals. The International Film Festival is special to me, and I hope the Egyptian audience will appreciate the film and its important message.”
How has “Arza” been received by international audiences at film festivals?
Interview: Insights on “Arza” at the 45th Cairo International Film Festival
Interviewer: Welcome, and thank you for joining us today to discuss “Arza,” the Egyptian-Lebanese film making waves at the Cairo International Film Festival. We have with us Diamond Abu Abboud, one of the film’s leading actresses. Congratulations on the film’s screening!
Diamond Abu Abboud: Thank you! I am thrilled to be here and excited that “Arza” is finally showing in Cairo after its journey through various international festivals.
Interviewer: “Arza” is competing in the Horizons Arab Cinema Competition. What does this recognition mean to you and the team?
Diamond Abu Abboud: It’s an incredible honor. Being part of such a prestigious festival and competing for recognition showcases our hard work and dedication. We hope it brings attention to our story and the issues it tackles.
Interviewer: Can you tell us a little about the film’s storyline and your character?
Diamond Abu Abboud: The film follows Arja, a mother with immense strength facing numerous challenges while supporting her son, Kenan, and her sister, Laila. My character embodies the resilience and struggles of Lebanese women amid economic crises, revolution, and the aftermath of war. When I first read the script, I felt an immediate connection to Arja. Her story resonates deeply with me and many women in our region.
Interviewer: You mentioned the importance of the character’s journey. How does ”Arza” reflect the experiences of women in Lebanon?
Diamond Abu Abboud: The film explores how war affects women across generations. It delves into the everyday struggles they face, such as providing for their families and navigating societal challenges. “Arza” is a tribute to those women who continue to fight against the odds, highlighting their strength and resilience.
Interviewer: How has the feedback been from international audiences?
Diamond Abu Abboud: The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers have connected with the film’s themes and characters, often sharing their own experiences. It’s gratifying to see how the story resonates beyond Lebanon, capturing the universal struggle for dignity and survival.
Interviewer: As this film is also nominated to represent Lebanon at the Oscars, what are your hopes moving forward?
Diamond Abu Abboud: It’s a dream to be considered for such an accolade. Regardless of the outcome, I hope that “Arza” reaches wider audiences and sparks conversations about the challenges women face, not only in Lebanon but globally.
Interviewer: Thank you, Diamond, for sharing your thoughts and insights about this poignant film. We wish you and the entire “Arza” team the best of luck at the festival and beyond!
Diamond Abu Abboud: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing our film, and I hope the Egyptian audience appreciates its important message.
She added, “When I first read the script, I felt a deep connection to the character. She represents the Lebanese working woman facing many challenges. I resonate with Arza and understand her story. The film explores the impacts of war across generations.”